How to Choose the Right Air Conditioner for Your Home

Your Guide to buying the best Air Conditioners

Overview

This air conditioner buying guide is designed to help you make an informed decision when purchasing an air conditioning system for your home or business. We will provide information regarding the various types of air conditioners, what to look for when selecting an air conditioner, and the benefits and drawbacks of each type. We will also discuss installation considerations, energy efficiency, and after-purchase maintenance. Armed with this knowledge, you can make an educated choice when selecting the best air conditioning system for your needs.

Key features

  1. Size - Air conditioners come in a variety of sizes and the size you need will depend on the size of the room you're cooling. Choosing an air conditioner that is too small or too large for the room can affect efficiency and performance.
  2. SEER Rating - The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating measures how efficiently an air conditioner uses energy. A higher SEER rating indicates more efficient operation and lower energy costs.
  3. Energy Star Rating - Air conditioners that have earned the ENERGY STAR® rating are certified to be more efficient than standard models, providing improved energy efficiency and performance.
  4. Noise Level - Air conditioners come with various levels of sound. Make sure to choose one that won't be too loud or disruptive in your home or office.
  5. Installation - You will need to consider the costs associated with installation when budgeting for a new air conditioner. Make sure to research local contractors and costs before making a purchase.
  6. Maintenance - Regular maintenance is essential for air conditioners to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency. Be sure to factor in costs for service and repairs when deciding on a unit.

See the most popular Air Conditioners on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Efficiency: Air Conditioners are designed to be energy-efficient, helping you save on energy costs.
  • Health Benefits: Air Conditioners can help reduce humidity levels and keep the air cleaner, which can be beneficial for those with allergies or asthma.
  • Climate Control: Air Conditioners allow you to control the temperature inside your home, ensuring a comfortable environment.
  • Noise Reduction: Modern Air Conditioners are designed to run quietly, providing a more peaceful environment.
  • Durability: Air Conditioners are designed to last for several years, so you don't have to worry about replacing them frequently.

Cons

  • Cost - Air conditioners can be expensive to purchase and install. They also require a great deal of energy to operate, which can lead to increased energy bills.
  • Maintenance - Air conditioners require regular maintenance, such as filter changes, to keep them running efficiently and avoid costly repairs.
  • Noise - Air conditioners can be noisy, especially older units. Look for energy efficient models that are designed to run quietly.
  • Health Concerns - Air conditioners can exacerbate existing respiratory problems. Additionally, they can encourage the growth of mold and mildew, which can be harmful.

Best alternatives

  1. Evaporative Coolers - These coolers are powered by electricity and use evaporative cooling to cool the air in a room.
  2. Ceiling Fans - Ceiling fans use motors to circulate the air in a room, and can lower the temperature if used in combination with an air conditioner.
  3. Window Fans - Window fans are designed to fit in a window and draw air from the outside while exhausting the inside air.
  4. Portable Air Conditioners - Portable air conditioners are self-contained units that can be moved from one room to another.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

    Thermostat - A device that measures and regulates temperature within a specific range. Air Filter - A filter that removes dust and other particles from air circulated through an air conditioner. Condensate Pump - A pump used to remove excess water from an air conditioner. Air Handler - A device used to move cooled or heated air through a space. Ceiling Fan - A device used to circulate air in a room in order to cool it down. Humidifier - A device used to increase the level of humidity in a room. Ventilation Fans - Fans used to circulate air through a space in order to reduce humidity or improve air quality. Remote Control - A device used to control certain functions of an air conditioner from a distance.

Common questions

  1. What room size is suitable for each air conditioner? The size of the room to be cooled is an important factor when selecting an air conditioner. Air conditioners are rated in British Thermal Units (BTUs) which measure their cooling capacity. Generally, for every 500 square feet, you should add 6,000 BTUs.
  2. What other features should I look for in an air conditioner? When shopping for an air conditioner, look for features such as a timer, energy efficiency rating, adjustable fan speed, and remote control. You might also want to consider the noise output of the air conditioner.
  3. How do I install an air conditioner? Installing an air conditioner is best left to an experienced technician. Depending on the type of air conditioner, the installation process may involve mounting the unit, setting up the electrical wiring, and connecting the refrigerant lines.
  4. How much will it cost to run an air conditioner? The cost of running an air conditioner will depend on its size, efficiency, and how often it is used. On average, running a window air conditioner will cost about $35-$50 a month. Central air conditioning systems cost more to run, but can be more efficient when cooling an entire home.
  5. How often should an air conditioner be serviced? It is recommended that air conditioners be serviced once a year. During a service, a technician will check the system for any potential problems and clean the filters.

Trivia

In the early days of air conditioning, the technology was primarily used to cool the interiors of movie theaters. It made them more inviting, and it was a great way to beat the summer heat. Now, air conditioning is used in many different contexts, from homes to businesses to cars. Interestingly enough, the first air conditioner was invented by a young man from Texas named Willis Carrier. Carrier was only 23 when he invented the device in 1902, and it revolutionized the way people could cool their homes. Today, Carrier's invention is still used in homes and businesses around the world. Source: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/history-air-conditioning

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.